For students currently in grades 9–12
Special programs & collaborations
Custom Programs

Looking to create a custom program or collaboration?

Travel programs with the Smithsonian Institution for grades 8–12

Challenge yourself academically at the world's most prestigious universities

Non-profit organization offering student travel scholarships

High school youth summit focused on public health, climate change, and equity

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Campus-based climate change program for grades 9–12

Italy & Greece

Empires of the Mediterranean

June 22 — July 8
June 26 — July 12
July 5 — July 21
July 10 — July 26
$7,990 + airfare

Italy & Greece

Empires of the Mediterranean

June 22 — July 8
June 26 — July 12
July 5 — July 21
July 10 — July 26
$7,990 + airfare

Travel to Italy and Greece this summer—where the pillars of Western civilization were built—and dive into the histories of their ancient societies, adventure through their dramatic landscapes, and immerse yourself in the contemporary culture of vibrant cities, towns, and coastal villages. Experience the living legacy of the Greek and Roman Empires against a backdrop of magnificent temples, rich mythology, and stunning seascapes.

• Explore Rome’s iconic Colosseum, Forum, and Pantheon
• Swim in crystal-clear waters off the island of Capri
• Witness the fusion of the Greco-Roman world among Athenian ruins
• Learn the art of Greek and Italian cuisines through private cooking classes
“I think Putney’s trips are so valuable and important for opening minds and building confidence.”
—Melissa N., Lakewood, OH

Itinerary

This itinerary represents our best projection of the group’s schedule. However, we may implement changes designed to improve the quality of the program.

Departure — Travel Day

Meet your fellow high school student travelers and one or more of your program leaders in Philadelphia, and fly together to Naples, Italy. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

Pompeii, Capri, & Salerno, Italy — 4 days

Begin your program at our base in the small, coastal city of Salerno where you will get to know your peers and program leaders during an in-depth group orientation. Take a short train ride to Pompeii, the city that was blanketed by thick layers of scorching ash and volcanic mud when Mount Vesuvius erupted in A.D. 79. Step into the past in palaces still adorned with original frescoes, and see the haunting figures of townspeople frozen in time. Travel by high-speed ferry to Capri and explore the island’s extraordinary scenery, then take a refreshing swim from the rocky shoreline. Hike to the top of Mount Vesuvius and take in the views of the sprawling Italian coastline below. Make homemade pasta with a local chef in her classic cliff-top home, and practice Italian in seaside shops.

Rome, Italy — 4 days

Travel by train to Rome and explore the streets and alleyways of this vibrant city with your group, finding hidden parks and ruins. Settle into your comfortable accommodations in the center of the city and meet your host, who has provided lodging to Putney students for more than a decade. Interact with street performers and local shopkeepers, sample delicious gelato near the Spanish Steps, and take in the contemporary music scene in one of Rome's many historic piazzas.

Athens, Greece — 3 days

Fly to Athens and spend three days exploring the Acropolis and Parthenon, the ancient Agora, and the National Archaeological Museum with professional guides. Visit iconic works of art at the National Gallery and learn the stories of their excavation. Experience the modern bustling street life, markets, and cuisine, and explore the city’s best contemporary street art with a knowledgeable local guide.

Náfplio, Greece — 4 days

This small, beautiful city is set on the eastern coast of the Peloponnese in the shadow of a cliff-top castle. From our hotel in the old city, follow small pedestrian streets to a tiny beach, get to know the locals and long-time Putney collaborators based in town, and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Argos. On day trips, discover the legendary home of Agamemnon at Mycenae, view one of the world's best-preserved Greek theaters at Epidaurus and prepare your own theatrical performance, and learn the basics of traditional Greek dance. Enjoy a farewell dinner of Greek specialties at a family-run restaurant with live music, and tell fireside stories under the stars.

Return — Travel Day

Fly from Athens, Greece, to Philadelphia with your group and a leader, then continue on to your final destination. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

Itinerary

This itinerary represents our best projection of the group’s schedule. However, we may implement changes designed to improve the quality of the program.

Departure — Travel Day

Meet your fellow high school student travelers and one or more of your program leaders in Philadelphia, and fly together to Naples, Italy. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

Pompeii, Capri, & Salerno, Italy — 4 days

Begin your program at our base in the small, coastal city of Salerno where you will get to know your peers and program leaders during an in-depth group orientation. Take a short train ride to Pompeii, the city that was blanketed by thick layers of scorching ash and volcanic mud when Mount Vesuvius erupted in A.D. 79. Step into the past in palaces still adorned with original frescoes, and see the haunting figures of townspeople frozen in time. Travel by high-speed ferry to Capri and explore the island’s extraordinary scenery, then take a refreshing swim from the rocky shoreline. Hike to the top of Mount Vesuvius and take in the views of the sprawling Italian coastline below. Make homemade pasta with a local chef in her classic cliff-top home, and practice Italian in seaside shops.

Rome, Italy — 4 days

Travel by train to Rome and explore the streets and alleyways of this vibrant city with your group, finding hidden parks and ruins. Settle into your comfortable accommodations in the center of the city and meet your host, who has provided lodging to Putney students for more than a decade. Interact with street performers and local shopkeepers, sample delicious gelato near the Spanish Steps, and take in the contemporary music scene in one of Rome's many historic piazzas.

Athens, Greece — 3 days